By REBECCA BILLS
THE upcoming Ringwood Highland Games will now be held at the East Ringwood Football Oval after 18 years at Jubilee Park, Ringwood.
Event organiser Sue MacLeod said it was a lot of work organising next Sunday’s event but very satisfying seeing everyone come together to celebrate Scottish heritage.
“Lots of different things will be going on all day,” she said.
“We have a huge dog flyball competition that will see 20 teams of dogs that come from all over Victoria compete.
“I have 18 Scottish clans coming to perform at the event – the Geelong Highland Games only had seven clans.”
The Highland Games are events held throughout the year in Scotland and other countries as a way of celebrating Scottish and Celtic culture and heritage – especially that of the Scottish Highlands.
In early Games the contests of strength – jumping, running, throwing and riding – were used as a means of keeping men fit for war. Clans would compete against each other in these sporting events.
These gatherings enabled medieval chieftans and other rich landholders to select the strongest soldiers and other workers, including musicians and entertainers.
Ms MacLeod said she is passionate about keeping the Scottish culture alive and loves to bring the Scottish community together.
“There is a rich Scottish history in Ringwood,” she said.
“We have two Scottish country dance groups, two highland dance groups and the Ringwood RSL pipe band.
“Over the years, some of the Highland dances have ceased as they are expensive to run, so it is pivotal to run events like this to bring the Scottish community together.”
The Ringwood Highland Games is on Sunday 30 March at East Ringwood Football over from 9.30am to 4pm. Entry to the event is through Mines Road.
